The Southern Alberta Art Gallery Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin (SAAG) has begun work on a major $7.7 million modernization and expansion project.
The revitalization project includes a new park-side entrance and patio connecting to Galt Gardens, an upgraded Lower Gallery, a mixed-use workshop for exhibition building, programs and events; and an outdoor space called The Listening Garden. The project also introduces a café and catering kitchen
“We’re excited to expand and revitalize the Gallery in a way that reflects our communities’ evolving needs,” said Su Ying Strang, executive director of SAAG. “This project creates a variety of new spaces to host our expanding and increasingly diverse audiences. Our vision is to create a welcoming hub centered in great art and wonderful hospitality. This project will help us grow our audiences, supporting our belief that art is for everyone.”
The design is being led by Dialog and the project is scheduled to reopen in spring 2028.
“Our work here is a conversation with the histories and memories of this place,” said Robert Claiborne, partner, architect, Dialog. “The project is a process of discovering the possibilities lying dormant within the buildings. By unlocking the right moments and views, a transformation will take place.”
The environment within the Lower Gallery is being upgraded to achieve Class A museum standards, allowing the venue to host high-value, sensitive national and international traveling collections.
To create a barrier-free lower level in the former library building, the architectural design replaces old stairs with seamless interior ramps, making back-of-house administrative areas and public spaces safer for all abilities.
